Central Point, Oregon

June is a great month to hold a clinic in Central Point, Oregon. Coming out of the Texas heat into the cool, fresh mountain air was a wonderful break. We had a great bunch of students, many of whom had attended previous clinics. The students who had attended one of my previous clinics showed that they had worked very hard since the previous clinic. I was so proud of all of them. I had several mother-daughter students and this is always rewarding and they can look forward to helping each other.

I was also impressed with the students who had never attended a clinic. They really seemed to watch, pay attention and absorb, and when they had their opportunity for one on one, it seemed to come much easier for them. We had several horses that are of pro caliber and we also had young Gracie again who is starting her own horse. Gracie Silva is 7 years old. It was also a pleasure to work with Meryle Johnston, who is 70 years young. What an opportunity it was to work with such a broad range of riders. If you ever thought you were too old to run barrels, you should think again. I had some unbelievable over 40 riders.

To those students who were attending their first Charmayne James clinic, just remember that it takes a lot of practice, mentally and physically, to get where you want to be. There is tremendous amount of information to absorb over a three day period, not to mention trying to learn it in front of a crowd, plus trying to keep your horse from getting sour.

Carla Johnson and Dr. John Byrd were the ones to encourage us to schedule the clinic in Central Point, Oregon. We are so glad we were able to make it happen. The covered arena and entire facility at the Jackson County Fairgrounds were just great, and the entire staff there was very accommodating. The Medford airport, our hotel, and the arena were all in close proximity, and the nearby Family Fun Park was so much fun for the younger family members. Tyler had a great time playing games, riding go carts and the bumper boats. Tyler, Austin, Dr. Byrd and I had a great time on the jet boat ride down the Rogue River to Hellsgate Canyon.
Carla Johnson then showed us her late fathers, John Davis, 18,000 lb. green truck. It was significant because it broke the world record for the fastest diesel Truck, going over 300 MPH on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Tyler, who is a young Jeff Gordon fan and loves racing was very impressed when he got to sit in the drivers seat. Speaking of sightseeing, I cruised past all these beautiful sights when I was young and rodeoing and it is nice to now take the time to enjoy their beauty.

I want to thank all my sponsors DPI Global who manufactures My Horses Choice, Circle M Trailers, Professionals Choice, Cactus Saddles, Tahitian Noni International and Scampers Choice.

Thanks also to my team Dr. Byrd, Randy Riedinger, Heather Heath, Daryl Elloitt, H.L. and Sherry Beaubien. Also thanks to Jeni Hayes and Jane McGinley our volunteers for doing such a fantastic job.

Until Next Time!
May God bless you all,
Charmayne